PalenQ

The Mosel is a deep ditch kind of - roads hug the river but it is nice at times to go up and over the sinuous loops and take short cuts. From Luxembourg to Trier the river is not scenic much - take autoroutes and not miss much but shortly after Trier the Mosel enters its deep gorge-like valley.

At Cochem you can drive up to an old ruined castle with rave views of Mosel and Cochem far below.

scdreamer

Thanks, PalenQ - We will be staying in a rented house in Ellenz-Poltersdorf - I know very little about the area, other than it was suggested as a good place to do some hiking or biking, as well as winery exploring.

PalenQ

Sweet- it is right in what is one of the prettiest part of the Mosel - just upstream from Cochem - boats go between the two for a scenic ride. Vineyards all around. Great choice - small villages and lots of wineries.

scdreamer

Pal, thank you so much for those words. I began planning this trip (which is set for August/Sept) early last fall, then had to put everything aside, as we made a last-minute month long trip to Thailand in January, and were off to Mexico in Feb and early March. With the travel interruptions, I am just now getting back to the plans and arrangements for this French and German adventure. I have to admit, I was a little unsure as to the Mosel River Valley part of it, but had already made the accommodation arrangements, so we are committed. I just couldn’t clearly recall what had convinced me to visit this part of Germany. Your description of the area has put me back on track.

We will be in a small house just across a road from the river, with what appears to be a very nice view. Hoping to do some hiking, or at least good long walks, and also explore the vineyards and wineries. I think we have five nights to get to know the area.

As as I get to the finalization of the entire itinerary, I will repost on the forum for help with minor tweaking of details. So appreciate all the help I get here!

PalenQ

Be sure to sample the Ice Wines - the most vaunted of all Mosel wines and only produced in years when grapes can freeze on the vine. Very sweet. Dessert wine.

PalenQ

Sounds like a really neat place to stay - well done.

HappyTrvlr

AutoEurope mailed us a GPS before we left for Europe.